Indoor vs Outdoor Inflatable Hire

Choosing between indoor and outdoor inflatable hire depends on your venue, the time of year, and who the event is for. Both options work well when planned correctly. This guide sets out the practical differences so you can decide what suits your event best.

Indoor inflatable hire

Indoor hire is a popular choice for halls, schools, community centres and church venues. It offers a controlled environment and avoids weather-related disruption. Ceiling height is the main consideration, along with available floor space and access.

For indoor events, low-height and compact equipment is usually the safest option. Items from our Mini Low Height Bouncy Castles range are designed to fit venues with height restrictions. For younger children, our Soft Play Hire options provide a calm, contained play area that works well indoors.

Indoor setups are commonly used for toddler parties, christenings, school reward days and winter events. Because space is limited, choosing fewer items and allowing clear access around each piece helps keep the event manageable.

Outdoor inflatable hire

Outdoor hire gives more flexibility on size and layout, making it suitable for gardens, playgrounds, fields and parks. Larger inflatables and multiple units can be set up when space allows.

Standard items from our Bouncy Castles and Bouncy Castles with Slides ranges are popular for outdoor birthday parties, while bigger spaces suit equipment from our Obstacle Courses and Big Event Inflatables collections.

Outdoor events need additional planning around weather, ground conditions and power. If mains power is not available, we can supply a Generator. Many organisers also add Event Gazebos for shelter, storage or queue management.

Weather and backup planning

Weather is the main factor that separates indoor and outdoor hire. Indoor events are unaffected by rain or wind, while outdoor events benefit from having a simple backup plan. This could be moving indoors, reducing the setup, or scheduling shorter play sessions.

If conditions are unsafe, inflatables cannot be operated. Planning ahead helps avoid last-minute changes.

Age groups and supervision

Both indoor and outdoor events require adult supervision at all times. Mixed-age events benefit from separating areas by age group, regardless of location.

For larger setups, schools and public events, adding support from our Staff Supervisors can help manage numbers, explain rules and keep play organised.

Which option is right for your event?

Indoor hire works best for smaller spaces, younger age groups and winter dates. Outdoor hire is better suited to larger groups, bigger inflatables and summer events. The right choice depends on your venue and the type of event you are planning.

If you’re unsure which option suits your event, we’re happy to advise based on your space, age range and time of year.

For advice or to check availability, please visit our Contact Us page or see our FAQs.